A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in a Kingsville Walmart after employees discovered a newborn baby dead in a restroom trash can. Now, the baby’s grandfather is under arrest.
A 17-year-old girl entered the store and spent roughly 40 minutes in the restroom, according to surveillance footage. She then left the building and drove away with someone in a vehicle. About 30 minutes later, Walmart staff found the baby.
“Maintenance was able to grab all the trash bags and cans from the actual restroom and he was en route to dispose of them… thought it was a little (concerning) and made contact from other employees,” Tatum told USA TODAY.
Who allegedly drove her to Walmart to give birth and walk away? Her father—45-year-old Jerry Martinez—who is now facing charges of child abandonment and endangering a child through criminal negligence.
Staff members attempted CPR, but it was too late. The baby was pronounced dead at a hospital located just 150 yards away.
Stories like this should never happen. If Jerry Martinez had driven just 150 yards further, his grandchild might still be alive today. His daughter could have safely and legally placed her baby into the arms of hospital staff—giving the child a chance at life and adoption, instead of leaving them to die alone in a restroom trash can.
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The Texas Baby Moses Law allows parents to safely and legally surrender their newborn—60 days old or younger—at any hospital, fire station, or police station that’s staffed 24/7. No questions asked. No legal consequences. A second chance for moms and babies in tough situations.
This law exists because of tragedies like this. No baby should be discarded. And no parent, or grandparent, should feel so desperate they think that’s their only choice.
Texas—especially the Coastal Bend region—is home to many pregnancy resource centers ready to serve families in need. These centers are the heartbeat of the Pro-Life movement, offering compassion, hope, and practical support.
They are the hands and feet of Jesus to mothers and fathers who feel overwhelmed, alone, or afraid. Whether it’s diapers, housing, counseling, or just someone to listen—help is available.
There is always another way. Always a better option than abortion or infant abandonment.
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